Video gaming system

ABSTRACT

A video gaming system that preferable includes computing device interacting electronically with a video game controller, said video game controller in electronic communication with said computing device. The present disclosure generally relates to a video gaming system, which utilizes a video game controller in electronic communication with a computing device. Preferably, the computing device includes an electronic video game loaded on to a processor of the computing device when the video gaming system is configured to play a video game. As those skilled in the art further clearly recognize, input signals, generated by the video game controller in response to an input action provided by a user of the video gaming system, cause a visual or audio response by the electronic video game, which is displayed on a display associated with the computing device or delivered by way of a speaker associated with the computing device.

BACKGROUND

The present invention is broadly concerned with gaming systems, and moreparticularly, mobile video gaming systems. As improvement intelecommunication technologies continue to progress, there has been ashift in how users utilize their computing devices, and particularly howusers utilize their smart phones. Historically, users have enjoyedplaying video games on either specialized, limited purpose counselgaming systems, or personal computers. In either case, lack of mobilityof these systems has been a drawback, i.e. an inability to enjoy playingvideo games selected from thousands of available video games anytime andanywhere has not been an option. With the advancements intelecommunication and Wi-Fi enabled mobile computing devices withenhanced computing power, such as smart phones, and increased bandwidthin wireless phone services, there has been a shift in the video gamingindustry from fixed location gaming to mobile gaming. As this shift hasoccurred, a demand for improved characteristics of mobile video gamecontrollers has emerged, most particularly, improvements in ergonomicsand controller/computer interface capabilities. It is to these needs thepresent invention is directed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an embodiment of a video gaming system.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the videogaming system.

FIG. 3 illustrates a partial cutaway top perspective view of the secondembodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 2 , constructed inaccordance with various embodiments disclosed and claimed herein.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the second embodiment of the videogaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 5 shows a left-side partial cutaway view in elevation of the secondembodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 6 displays a left-side partial cutaway view in elevation of thesecond embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 7 displays a right-side view in elevation of the second embodimentof the video gaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 8 depicts a top plan view of the second embodiment of the videogaming system of FIG. 2 .

FIG. 9 depicts a plan view of a third embodiment of the video gamingsystem.

FIG. 10 illustrates a plan view of the third embodiment of the videogaming system of FIG. 9 depicting a partial cutaway revealing a clampassembly of each of a pair of input modules of an electronic gamecontrol of the video gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 11 shows a top perspective view of the third embodiment of thevideo gaming system of FIG. 9 depicting a power and data transfer cablecommunicating with each input module of the electronic video gamecontroller of the third embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 9constructed in accordance with various embodiments disclosed and claimedherein.

FIG. 12 displays a partial cutaway front view in elevation of the clampassembly supported by the computing device of the third embodiment ofthe video gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 13 displays a top view of a head portion of a clamp shaft of theclamp assembly of the third embodiment of the video gaming system ofFIG. 9 .

FIG. 14 shows a back plan view of a retention clip of the clamp assemblyof the third embodiment of the video gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 15 illustrates a front view in elevation of the third embodiment ofthe video gaming system of FIG. 9 , revealing a pair of retention clipsengaged with the clamp shaft, said retention clips mitigates verticaldisplacement of the clamp shaft relative to the computing device whilesaid retention clips facilitating rotation of the clamp shaft relativeto the computing device.

FIG. 16 shows a left-side elevation view of a gaming headset configuredto interact with the third embodiment of the gaming system of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 17 shows a front view in elevation view of the gaming headset ofFIG. 16 , configured to interact with the third embodiment of the gamingsystem of FIG. 9 .

FIG. 18 shows a front view in elevation of a fourth embodiment of avideo gaming system.

FIG. 19 shows a front perspective plan view of the fourth embodiment ofthe video gaming system of FIG. 18 , revealing a non-ridged,non-stretchable webbing secured to each of the pair of input modules ofthe video game controller.

FIG. 20 shows a bottom view in elevation of the video gaming system ofFIG. 19 , which reveals a hinged hatch provided by at least one of theinput modules.

FIG. 21 shows front view in elevation of a ball portion of a ball andreceiver latch, provided by at least one of the input modules of FIG. 20, said ball and receiver latch cooperate with the hinged hatch toconfine the hinged hatch in a closed position.

FIG. 22 shows a top plan view of the receiver portion of said ball andreceiver latch of FIG. 20 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure generally relates to a video gaming system, whichutilizes a video game controller in electronic communication with acomputing device. Preferably, the computing device includes anelectronic video game loaded on to a processor of the computing devicewhen the video gaming system is configured to play a video game. Asthose skilled in the art further clearly recognize that input signals,generated by the video game controller, in response to an input actionprovided by a user of the video gaming system, causes a visual or audioresponse by the electronic video game, which is displayed on a displayassociated with the computing device or delivered by way of a speakerassociated with the computing device. Accordingly, it is inherent thatan operational video gaming system operates by way of a video gamesoftware program loaded into a memory portion of the computing devicethat interacts with the processor of the computing device. Further, formost video gaming systems, the video game controller preferably includesa processor, which manages the functions of the video game controllerand interfaces with the processor of the computing device.

Turning to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a power management and power passthrough circuit 100 (“PMPP”) of a first embodiment of a video gamingsystem 101. Said video gaming system 101, includes at least, but is notlimited to, a computing device 102, which provides at least a firstenergy storage device 104. The computing device 102 communicates with avideo game controller 106, said video game controller 106 provides atleast, but is not limited to, a second energy storage device 108 and aprocessor 110. Said PMPP 100 precludes a simultaneous bidirectionalcurrent flow between said computing device 102 and said video gamecontroller 106.

In a preferred embodiment, the communication between the computingdevice 102 and the video game controller 106 is achieved via a wiredconnection circuit 112, however as one skilled in the art understands,communication between the computing device 102 and the video gamecontroller 106 may be achieved wirelessly. The wired connection circuit112 preferably includes a power and signal cable 114 (also referred toherein as cable 114). Cable 114 preferably provides a connector 116,which is specifically configured to interface with an interfaceconnector 118, said interface connector 118 provides a predeterminednumber of contacts including, but not limited to, a power contact and aground contact.

As further shown by FIG. 1 , the video game controller 106 furtherprovides at least, but not by way of a limitation: a first current flowcontrol circuit 120; a second current flow control circuit 122; aunidirectional current flow circuit 124; a battery charge controlcircuit 126 (battery charge control device); a voltage present detectioncircuit 128; and an interface connector 130. In a preferred embodiment,said interface connector 130 presents a structurally similar structureto the interface connector 118. The PMPP 100 still further preferablyincludes a computing device charger 132, and a charge cord 134. In apreferred embodiment, during operation of the video gaming system 101,the first energy storage device 104 is connected in parallel with thesecond energy storage device 108 of the video game controller 106. Thefirst energy storage device 104 and the second energy storage device 108of the video game controller 106 are of a common voltage but aretypically of different capacities.

Further in a preferred operating mode, when the computing device 102 isactivated and no voltage is detected by the voltage present detectioncircuit 128, the first current flow control circuit 120 is set toprovide power from the first energy storage device 104 of the computingdevice 102 to the processor 110 by way of the unidirectional currentflow circuit 124 and the second energy storage device 108.

While the second current flow control circuit 122 is set to precludepower passage from the computing device charger 132 to the processor110, when voltage is detected by the voltage present detection circuit128, the first current flow control circuit 120 is set to preclude powerfrom the first energy storage device 104 to the processor 110. The firstenergy storage device 104 is simultaneously set to receive power fromthe computing device charger 132 for charging the first energy storagedevice 104, which in a preferred embodiment is, but not by limitation, abattery. While the first energy storage device 104 is being charged, thesecond energy storage device 108, provides power to the processor 110and the second current flow control circuit 122 is set to preclude powerpassage from the computing device charger 132 to the second energystorage device 108. However, during a charge cycle of the first energystorage device 104, and when the battery charge control circuit 126detects the charge level of the second energy storage device 108 to beat a predetermined low threshold value, for example, below a thresholdvalue as a set value, the battery charge control circuit 126 signals theprocessor 110, which in turn signals the second current flow controlcircuit 122 to change state from precluding power transfer from thecomputing device charger 132 to the second energy storage device 108, toenabling power transfer from the computing device charger 132 to thesecond energy storage device 108.

During the charge process of the second energy storage device 108, whenthe battery charge control circuit 126 detects the charge level of thesecond energy storage device 108 to be at a predetermined highthreshold, for example, above a threshold value as a set value (whichmay differ from and be higher than the predetermined low threshold), thebattery charge control circuit 126 signals the processor 110, which inturn signals the second current flow control circuit 122 to change statefrom enabling power transfer from the computing device charger 132 tothe second energy storage device 108 to precluding power transfer fromthe computing device charger 132 to the second energy storage device108. In a preferred embodiment, the unidirectional current flow circuit124 precludes passage of current from the second energy storage device108 to the first energy storage device 104. It is known by those skilledin the art that a specifically designed Zener Diode will fulfill thistask by preventing voltage of said second energy storage device 108(such as a battery or specialized capacitor) from being conducted toeither said first energy storage device 104 or said interface connector130. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, at least aportion of the functions being carried out by the PMPP circuit 100described hereinabove may be carried out through the use of an ASIC(application specific integrated circuit), programed to carry out thefunctions disclosed herein above, and interacting with processor 110.

FIG. 2 shows a perspective view of a second embodiment of the videogaming system 200. The video gaming system 200 preferably includes atleast a computing device 202 supported by a stand 204 above a video gamecontroller 206. In a preferred embodiment the stand 204 includes asupport portion 208 linked to a cradle portion 210. The cradle portion210 confines and secures the computing device 202 during a user'soperation of the video gaming system 200.

The video game controller 206 is in electronic communication with saidcomputing device 202, and includes at least, but is not limited to, acover portion 212 and a base portion 214. The cover portion 212 whensecured to the base portion 214 forms a video game controller housing216 (also referred to herein as controller housing 216). The coverportion 212 provides a front edge 218, and an aperture 220 offset fromthe front edge 218.

FIG. 3 shows the support portion 208 of the stand 204 further preferableprovides a boss 222 and a pocket 224. In this preferred embodiment, andas additionally shown by FIG. 5 , the aperture 220 is configured toconfine and promote passage of the support portion 208 through the coverportion 212. And as shown by FIG. 5 , the base portion 214 provides aretention pocket 226 and a retention boss 228. Boss 222 (of FIG. 3 )interacts with retention pocket 226, the interaction between boss 222and retention pocket 226 constrains the support portion 208, within theaperture 220. The interaction of pocket 224 and retention boss 228,mitigates an inadvertent removal of the support portion 208 fromaperture 220. It is noted that in this second embodiment of the videogaming system 200, the stand 204 is removably secured to the video gamecontroller housing 216 absent the use of hardware, that is the stand 204is manually pushed into the aperture 220 to install the stand 204 to thevideo game controller housing 216, and manually pulled out of theaperture 220 to uninstall the stand 204 from the video game controllerhousing 216.

FIG. 4 further shows a top perspective view of the video gaming system200, in which the cover portion 212, provides a plurality of inputbutton apertures 230 which facilitates an interaction by the user with aplurality of input buttons 232 and a joystick 234. Each input button 232is confined by its corresponding input button aperture 230, and thejoystick 234 is confined by its corresponding input button aperture 230.

As shown by FIG. 7 , when the computing device 202 is confined by thecradle portion 210, and the stand 204 is secured by the controllerhousing 216, the computing device 202 overhangs at least a portion ofthe cover portion 212 and visually obscures a number of the plurality ofinput buttons 232 and the joystick 234, when the user is viewing the(mobile) video gaming system 200 from a top plan view vantage point asshown by FIG. 8 .

FIG. 8 further shows the computing device 202 has a length 240, greaterthan its width 242, and a display screen 245 secured to a back 246, andin which the stand 204 (of FIG. 7 ) is manually removably secured to thecontroller housing 216 upon full engagement of the support portionwithin the aperture 220 (of FIG. 4 ).

Returning to FIG. 7 , the support portion 208 provides a hinge member248, which corresponds to, and is in contact adjacency with, a hingemember 250 of the cradle portion 210. The corresponding hinge members(248 & 250) are linked one to the other by way if a hinge pin 252 (ofFIG. 4 ). The hinge pin 252 promotes an articulation of the cradleportion 210 relative to the support portion 208. The hinge pin 252interacts with provided mechanical hardware 254 (of FIG. 4 ) such thatwhen a desired angle between said support portion 208 and said cradleportion 210 is selected, the mechanical hardware 254 is engaged tomaintain said desired angle between the support portion 208 and thecradle portion 210. As further shown by FIG. 8 , the controller housing216 provides both right-side and left-side input module portions (255 &256 respectively). Each of the input module portions (255 & 256) hosts,as shown by FIG. 7 , a plurality of input mechanisms including, but notlimited to, input buttons 232, joysticks 234, and triggers 258.

Returning to FIG. 4 , illustrated is an audio signal input/output port260 arranged at a transversal portion 262 of said controller housing216, said audio signal input/output port 260 is separate and distinctfrom a combined power input and audio signal input/output port 264 (ofFIG. 6 ) positioned on said front edge 218 (of FIG. 6 ).

Additionally, FIG. 6 shows a printed circuit board assembly 266. Theprinted circuit board assembly 266 is housed within the controllerhousing 216. In this preferred embodiment, the printed circuit boardassembly 266 (of FIG. 8 ) provides a gaming processor 268 (of FIG. 8 ).The gaming processor 268 is in electrical communication with: theplurality of input buttons 232 (of FIG. 4 ) the joystick 234; the audiosignal input/output port 260 (of FIG. 4 ); and the power input port 270(of FIG. 5 ). The printed circuit board assembly 266 further includes apower management and power pass through circuit 100 (of FIG. 1 ), saidpower management and power pass through circuit 100 communicating withsaid power input port 270.

FIG. 9 shows a front view in elevation of a third embodiment of a(mobile) video gaming system 300. The video gaming system 300 includes,but is not limited to, a computing device 302. The computing device 302provides at least a combined audio and data input/output port 304, aswell as a processor 306, and a transceiver device 308. The processor 306is in electrical communication with each the combined audio and datainput/output port 304, and the transceiver device 308. The computingdevice 302 further provides a display screen 318, and a back cover 320(of FIG. 11 ). The back cover 320, encloses the processor 306 and issecured to the display screen 318. The securement of back cover 320 tothe display screen 318 forms an enclosed edge 322 (of FIG. 11 ) around aperimeter 324 (of FIG. 10 ) of the computing device 302. The perimeter324 includes at least two opposing sides 326 & 328, respectfully, ofFIG. 10 .

FIG. 10 additionally shows that the video gaming system 300, aspreferably further including a bridgeless video game controller 330 inelectronic communication with the processor 306 (of FIG. 9 ). In thispreferred embodiment, the bridgeless video game controller 330 providesa pair of video game control modules 332 & 334 (of FIG. 9 )respectfully. Each video game control module 332 or 334 is secured to aside of the two opposing sides 326 & 328, and each video game controlmodule (332 or 334) is supported by the computing device 302, ratherthan the pair of video game control modules 332 & 334 supporting thecomputing device 302.

The video gaming system 300, which preferably includes the bridgelesselectronic video game controller 330 supported by the computing device302, further includes and interacts with an audio headset 336 (of FIGS.16 & 17 ). The bridgeless electronic video game controller 330 is indirect, wired electronic communication with the processor 306 by way ofthe combination audio and data input/output port 304 of said computingdevice 302, and a combination audio and data input/output port 305 ofthe bridgeless electronic video game controller 330.

As shown by FIG. 11 , the pair of video game control modules 332 & 334of the bridgeless electronic video game controller 330 preferablyincludes at least a right-side input module portion 338, a left-sideinput module portion 340, and a tension free combination power and datacommunication cable 342 (also referred to herein as tension free cable342). The tension free cable 342 is disposed between the right-side andleft-side input module portions 338 & 340. The tension free cable 342facilitates both data and power transfer between the right-side andleft-side input module portions 338 & 340. In some embodiments, thetension free cable 342 does not provide structural support for eithersaid right-side or said left-side input module portions 338 & 340.

As shown by FIG. 10 , the bridgeless video game controller 330, utilizesa pair of clamp assemblies, i.e., a right-side clamp assembly 344 and aleft-side clamp assembly 346. The right-side clamp assembly 344 issecured to and independently interacts with the right-side input moduleportion 338 while the left-side clamp assembly 346 is secured to andindependently interacts with the left-side input module portion 340. Theright-side and left-side clamp assemblies 344 & 346, in unison,cooperatively attach and secure the bridgeless electronic video gamecontroller 330 to the computing device 302, wherein the computing device302 provides all structural support for each the right-side input moduleportion 338 and said left-side input module portion 340 by way of thecorresponding right-side clamp assembly 344 and left-side clamp assembly346.

As further shown by FIG. 11 , each right-side input module portion 338and left-side input module portion 340 include at least, but are notlimited to, a top enclosure (348 & 352) and a corresponding bottomenclosure (350 & 354), each top enclosure and a corresponding bottomenclosure join to form corresponding input module housing (356 & 358).As further shown by FIG. 10 , the video gaming system 300, wherein theright-side and left-side input module portions 338 & 340 provide aplurality of input mechanisms including, but not limited to, buttons360, joysticks 362, and triggers 364.

FIG. 12 shows the right-side clamp assembly 344, while FIG. 15 shows theleft-side clamp assembly 346, each of which are formed from a common setof components. The common set of components include, but are not limitedto, a force translation shaft 366 secured to the right-side input moduleportion 338 (of FIG. 10 ), else the left-side input module portion 340(of FIG. 10 ), by a retention clip 368 as shown in FIG. 10 . Theretention clip 368 provides a mounting portion 370 and a securementportion 372 as shown by FIG. 14 . The mounting portion 370 is secured tothe input module housing (356 or 358), while securement portion 372interacts with a retention grove 374, which is provided by the forcetranslation shaft 366. The securement portion 372 precludes a verticaltranslation of the force translation shaft 366, relative to itscorresponding input module portion (338 or 340), while promotingrotation of the force translation shaft 366 relative to itscorresponding input module portion (338 or 340).

FIG. 15 reveals an actuation knob 376 communicating with a multi sidedhead portion 378 of the force translation shaft 366, and a pair of jaws(380 & 382) communicating with the force translation shaft 366. The pairof jaws (380 & 382) are responsive to a rotational input force appliedto the actuation knob 376. The pair of jaws (380 & 382) facilitateattachment of each the right-side input module portion 338, and theleft-side input module portion 340 to the computing device 302. A topplan view of an embodiment of the multi sided head portion 378 is shownby FIG. 13 .

FIG. 15 further reveals that the force translation shaft 366 presents aleft-hand 383 thread on a proximal end and a corresponding right-handthread 385 on an opposing distal end, such that when a clockwiserotation is applied to said force translation shaft 366, said pair ofjaws (380 & 382) advance toward one another thereby closing said pair ofjaws (380 & 382) onto said computing device 302, further when acounter-clockwise rotation is applied to said force translation shaft366, said pair of jaws (380 & 382) retract from one another therebyopening said pair of jaws (380 & 382) from said computing device 302permitting removal of said corresponding video game control modules (344& 346 of FIG. 112 ) from said computing device 302.

FIGS. 16 & 17 show an audio headset 336 includes at least, but notlimited to, a right-hand speaker 384 and a left-hand speaker 386, eachright-hand and left-hand speakers (384 & 386) are housed within acorresponding right-hand and left-hand speaker housing (388 & 390). In apreferred embodiment, a head band 392 is disposed between and secured toeach the right-hand and left-hand speaker housings (388 & 390).

FIG. 17 reveals a power and audio input communication port 394 providedby the right-hand speaker housing 388, else provided by the left-handspeaker housing 390. An audio input/output cable 396 is shown in FIG. 16, whereby the audio input/output cable 396 provides a first connector398 and a second connector 400, the second connector 400 on a proximalend of the input/output cable 396 and the first connector 398 on adistal end of the input/output cable 396, whereby the first connector398 interacts with an input/output communication port 402 of FIG. 17 ,else the second connector 400 interacts with the input/outputcommunication port 402.

FIG. 17 further reveals a combination power and audio input port 404provided by the right-hand speaker housing 388, else provided by theleft-hand speaker housing 390; an energy storage device 406 housed bythe right-hand speaker housing 388 else housed by the left-hand speakerhousing 390, whereby the energy storage device 406 interacts with thecombination power and audio input port 404. FIG. 17 additionallyillustrates a charging cable 408 configured for connection to thecombination power and audio input port 404 when the energy storagedevice 406 is charging.

Returning to FIG. 16 , shown therein is a microphone 409 configured forconnection to: the power and audio input communication port 394 (of FIG.17 ); an audio processor 410; and a transceiver device 412. The audioprocessor 410 and the transceiver device 412 are configured to cooperatewith the corresponding processor 306 (of FIG. 9 ) and the transceiverdevice 308 (of FIG. 9 ) of the computing device 302 (of FIG. 9 ).

FIG. 18 shows a mobile video gaming system 500 that includes at least,but not limited to, a computing device 502. The computing device 502presents a fixed length 504 greater than its width 506, said computingdevice 502 provides a first combination data/power/audio connector 508.A first video game control module 510 provides a second combinationdata/power/audio connector 512. The second combination data/power/audioconnector 512 is in electronic communication with the first combinationdata/power/audio connector 508, thereby facilitating passage of data andpower and audio signals between said first video game control module 510and the computing device 502. The mobile video gaming system 500preferably further includes a second video game control module 514 inelectronic communication with the first video game control module 510,and a non-elastic, fixed length, flexible strap (“strap”) 516 (of FIG.19 ) disposed between and secured directly to each of the first videogame control module 510 and the second video game control module 514. Ina preferred embodiment, the strap 516 includes two layers of webbingwith a power and data conductor 517, sandwiched between the two layersof webbing.

FIG. 19 further shows that upon securement of the strap 516 to each thefirst video game control module 510 and the second video game controlmodule 514, neither the strap 516, nor the first video game controlmodule 510, nor the second video game controller 514 facilitate anyadjustment to accommodate a length of a computing device different thanthe fixed length 504 of the computing device 502.

Continuing with FIG. 19 , the first video game control module 510further provides a power input port 518 and an audio signal port 520.The power input port 518 facilitates transfer of power from an externalcharger to a battery 522 (of FIG. 18 ) of the computing device 502 (ofFIG. 18 ), and the audio signal port 520 facilitates transfer of audiosignals between an audio processor 524 (of FIG. 18 ) (such as Cmedia'sCM6206 audio codec chip) of the computing device 502 and an externalaudio device (such as the audio headset 336 of FIG. 16 ).

As shown by FIG. 20 , the second video game control module 514 providesa hinged hatch 526 and a latch 528, the hinged hatch 526 interacts withthe latch 528. The interaction of the hinged hatch 526 with the latch528 confines and restrains the computing device 502 (of FIG. 18 ) withinthe first video game control module 510 and said second video gamecontrol module 514. In a preferred embodiment, the latch 528 includes atleast, but is not limited to, two components: a ball 560, which issecured to the hinged hatch 526 and a receiver 562, which is secured toa strap restraint member 564 of the second video game control module514. FIG. 21 shows a front view in elevation of the ball 560, while FIG.526 shows a top plan view of the receiver 562.

During operation, a first end of the computing device 502 is slid intoposition within the first video game control module 510 and thecombination data/power/audio connector 508 of the computing device 502is fully seated into the combination data/power/audio connector 512 ofthe first video game control module 510, thereby facilitating passage ofdata, power, and audio signals between said first video game controlmodule 510 and the computing device 502. Ones the first end of thecomputing device 502 is correctly seated within the first video gamecontrol module 510, the second of the computing device 502 is loweredinto position in contact adjacency with the strap restraint member 564and the hinged hatch is manually rotated such that the ball 560 engagesthe receiver 562. The full engagement of the ball 560 with the receiver562 locks and secures the computing device 502 between the first andsecond video game control modules (510 & 514) until the latch 528 isreleased by the user.

It is to be understood that even though numerous characteristics andconfigurations of various embodiments of the present invention have beenset forth in the foregoing description, together with details of thestructure and function of various embodiments of the invention, thisdetailed description is illustrative only, and changes may be made indetail, especially in matters of structure and arrangements of partswithin the principles of the present invention to the full extentindicated by the broad general meaning of the terms in which theappended claims are expressed. For example, the particular elements mayvary depending on the particular computing device without departing fromthe spirit and scope of the present invention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A video gaming system comprising: a computingdevice, said computing device provides at least a first energy storagedevice; and a video game controller, said video game controller providesat least a second energy storage device, said video game controller inelectronic communication with said computing device; a wired connectioncircuit, said wired connection circuit passes data and power betweensaid computing device and said video game controller, said wiredconnection circuit including at least a combination power and data cabledisposed between a connector in communication with said computing deviceand an interface connector in communication with said video gamecontroller; a power management and power pass through circuit (“PMPP”),said PMPP confined within a housing of said video game controller, saidPMPP communicating with each of said first energy storage device, saidsecond energy storage device, and a processor of said video gamecontroller, said PMPP precludes a simultaneous bidirectional currentflow between said computing device and said video game controller, saidPMPP comprising: a first current flow control circuit, said firstcurrent flow control circuit transfers power from said first energystorage device to said processor when said computing device is activatedand said first energy storage device is above a first predeterminedvoltage level; and a second current flow control circuit, said secondcurrent flow control circuit transfers power to said processor from acomputing device charger when said first energy storage device is belowa second predetermined voltage level, said computing device charger inelectrical communication with said video game controller.
 2. The videogaming system of claim 1, in which in response to a first command signalfrom said processor, said first current flow control circuit precludestransfer of power between said first energy storage device to saidprocessor, and promotes transfer of power between said computing devicecharger and said first energy storage device, said first command signalfurther commands said second current flow control circuit to promotetransfer of power between said computing device charger and saidprocessor.
 3. The video gaming system of claim 2, in which in responseto a second command signal from said processor, said first current flowcontrol circuit promotes transfer of power between said first energystorage device to said processor, and precludes transfer of powerbetween said computing device charger and said first energy storagedevice, said second command signal further commands said second currentflow control circuit to preclude transfer of power between said firstenergy storage device and said computing device charger.
 4. The videogaming system of claim 3, further comprising a unidirectional currentflow control circuit disposed between each of said first and secondcurrent flow control circuits and said second energy storage device,said unidirectional current flow control circuit precludes voltage ofsaid second energy storage device from being conducted to either saidfirst energy storage device or said interface connector.
 5. The videogaming system of claim 4, further comprising a battery charge controldevice, said battery charge control device disposed between said secondenergy storage device and said processor, in which when said batterycharge control device detects said charge level of said second energystorage device to be at a predetermined low voltage level as the secondpredetermined voltage level, said battery charge control device signalssaid processor, said processor signals said second current flow controlcircuit to change state from precluding power transfer from saidcomputing device charger and enabling power transfer from said computingdevice charger to said second energy storage device.
 6. The video gamingsystem of claim 5, further comprising a voltage present detectioncircuit, said voltage present detection circuit disposed between saidinterface connector and said processor, in which when voltage isdetected by said voltage present detection circuit at said interfaceconnector, said voltage present detection circuit signals saidprocessor, said processor signals said first current flow controlcircuit to preclude current from flowing the first energy storagedevice, said processor further simultaneously signals said secondcurrent flow control circuit to promote passage of current from saidcomputing device charger to said processor.
 7. A video gaming systemcomprising: a computing device; a stand, said stand includes a supportportion linked to a cradle portion, said cradle portion confines saidcomputing device, said support portion provides a boss and a pocket; anda video game controller, said video game controller in electroniccommunication with said computing device, said video game controllercomprising: a cover portion and a base portion, said cover portionprovides a front edge, said base portion secured to said cover portion,said cover portion provides an aperture offset from said front edge,said base portion provides a retention boss and a retention pocket, saidaperture configured to confine and promote passage of said supportportion through said cover portion, said boss interacts with saidretention pocket to constrain said support portion within said aperture,said pocket interacts with said retention boss to mitigate aninadvertent removal of said support portion from said aperture, whereinsaid cover portion secured to said base forms a controller housing, andfurther wherein said stand is removably secured to said controllerhousing absent the use of hardware.
 8. The video gaming system of claim7, in which said cover portion provides a plurality of input buttonapertures which facilitates an interaction by a user with a plurality ofinput buttons and a joystick, and wherein when said computing device isconfined by said cradle portion, and said stand is secured by saidcontroller housing, said computer device overhangs at least a portion ofsaid cover portion and visually obscures a number of said plurality ofinput buttons and said joystick when said user is viewing said videogaming system from a top plan view vantage point.
 9. The video gamingsystem of claim 8, in which said computing device has a length greaterthan its width and a display screen secured to a back, and in which saidstand is manually removably secured to said controller housing upon fullengagement of said support portion within said aperture; said supportportion provides a hinge member which corresponds to and is in contactadjacency with a second hinge member of said cradle portion, said hingemember and second hinge member are linked by way of a hinge pin, saidhinge pin promotes an articulation of said cradle portion relative tosaid support portion, said hinge pin interacts with mechanical hardwaresuch that when a desired angle between said support portion and saidcradle portion is selected, said mechanical hardware is engaged tomaintain said desired angle between said support portion and said cradleportion.
 10. The video gaming system of claim 9, further comprising anaudio signal input/output port provided at a rear side of saidcontroller housing, said audio signal input/output port is separate anddistinct from an adjacent power input port.
 11. The video gaming systemof claim 10, wherein said stand is removably secured to said controllerhousing absent use of second mechanical hardware.
 12. The video gamingsystem of claim 11, wherein said controller housing provides bothright-side and left-side input module portions, each said right-side andleft-side input module portion hosts a plurality of input mechanismsincluding at least said plurality of buttons, said joystick, and atrigger.
 13. The video gaming system of claim 12, further comprising anaudio signal input/output port arranged at a transversal portion of saidcontroller housing, said audio signal input/output port is separate anddistinct from a combined power input and audio signal input/output portpositioned on said front edge.
 14. The video gaming system of claim 13,further comprising a printed circuit board assembly, said printedcircuit board assembly housed within said controller housing, saidprinted circuit board assembly provides a gaming processor, said gamingprocessor in electrical communication with said plurality of inputbuttons and said joystick, said audio signal input/output port, and saidpower input port, said printed circuit board assembly further providinga power pass through circuit, said power pass through circuitcommunicating with said power input port.
 15. The video gaming system ofclaim 14, in which said power pass through circuit comprises: an energystorage device selectively powering said gaming processor; a firstcurrent flow control circuit communicating with said gaming processor; asecond current flow control circuit communication with said gamingprocessor; a unidirectional current flow control circuit communicatingwith and disposed between said energy storage device and each said firstand second current flow control circuits; and a charge control devicecommunicating with and disposed between said gaming processor and saidenergy storage device.
 16. A mobile video gaming system comprising: acomputing device, the computing device provides at least a combinedaudio and data input/output port as well as a processor, and atransceiver device, said processor in electrical communication with eachof said combined audio and data input/output port and said transceiverdevice, said computing device further provides a display screen and aback cover, said back cover encloses said processor and is secured tosaid display screen to form an enclosed edge around a perimeter of saidcomputing device, said perimeter includes at least two opposing sides;and a bridgeless video game controller in electronic communication withsaid processor, said bridgeless video game controller provides a pair ofvideo game control modules, each video game control module is secured toa side of said two opposing sides and is supported by said computingdevice, rather than the pair of video game control modules supportingthe computing device.
 17. The mobile video gaming system of claim 16,further comprising: said bridgeless electronic video game controllersupported by said computing device and interacting with an audioheadset, said bridgeless electronic video game controller in directwired electronic communication with said processor by way of saidcombination audio and data input/output port of said computing device,said pair of video game control modules of said bridgeless electronicvideo game controller comprising: a right-side input module portion, aleft-side input module portion, and a tension free combination power anddata communication cable disposed between said right-side and left-sideinput module portions, said tension free combination power and datacommunication cable supports data and power transfer between theright-side and left-side input module portions, said tension freecombination power and data communication cable provides no structuralsupport for neither said right-side nor said left-side input moduleportion; and a right-side clamp assembly and a left-side clamp assembly,said right-side clamp assembly secured to and independently interactswith said right-side input module portion, said left-side clamp assemblysecured to and independently interacts with said left-side input moduleportion, said right-side and left-side clamp assemblies, in unison,cooperatively attach and secure said bridgeless electronic video gamecontroller to said computing device, wherein said computing deviceprovides all structural support for each said right-side input moduleportion and said left-side input module portion by way of saidcorresponding right-side clamp assembly and left-side clamp assembly.18. The mobile video gaming system of claim 17, in which each saidright-side input module portion and said left-side input module portioninclude a top enclosure and a corresponding bottom enclosure, each saidtop enclosure and a corresponding bottom enclosure join to form acorresponding input module housing.
 19. The mobile video gaming systemof claim 18, wherein said right-side and left-side input module portionsprovide a plurality of input mechanisms including at least a button, ajoystick, and a trigger.
 20. The mobile video gaming system of claim 19,in which each said right-side clamp assembly and said left-side clampassembly are formed from a common set of components, said common set ofcomponents comprising: a force translation shaft secured to saidright-side input module portion, else said left-side input moduleportion by a retention clip, said retention clip provides a mountingportion and a securement portion, said mounting portion secured to saidinput module housing, said securement portion interacts with a retentiongrove provided by said force translation shaft, said securement portionprecludes a vertical translation of said force translation shaftrelative to its corresponding input module portion while promotingrotation of said force translation shaft relative to its correspondinginput module portion; an actuation knob communicating with a multi sidedhead portion of said force translation shaft; and a pair of jawscommunicating with said force translation shaft, said pair of jawsresponsive to a rotational input force applied to said actuation knob,said pair of jaws facilitate attachment of each said right-side inputmodule portion and said left-side input module portion to said computingdevice.
 21. The mobile video gaming system of claim 20, in which saidforce translation shaft presents a left-hand thread on a proximal endand a corresponding right-hand thread on an opposing distal end, suchthat when a clockwise rotation is applied to said force translationshaft, said pair of jaws advance toward one another thereby closing saidpair of jaws onto said computing device, further when acounter-clockwise rotation is applied to said force translation shaft,said pair of jaws retract from one another thereby opening said pair ofjaws from said computing device permitting removal of said correspondingvideo game control module from said computing device.
 22. The mobilevideo gaming system of claim 21, in which said audio head set an audioheadset communicating with said computing device, comprising; aright-hand speaker and a left-hand speaker, each right-hand andleft-hand speaker housed within a corresponding right-hand speakerhousing and left-hand speaker housing; a head band disposed between andsecured to each of said right-hand speaker housing and said left-handspeaker housing; an audio input/output communication port provided bysaid right-hand speaker housing else provided by said left-hand speakerhousing; an audio input/output cable, said audio input/output cableprovides a first connector and a second connector, said second connectordistal from said first connector, said first connector interacting withsaid input/output communication port, else said second connectorinteracting with said input/output communication port; a combinationpower and audio input port provided by said right-hand speaker housingelse provided by said left-hand speaker housing; a energy storage devicehoused by said right-hand speaker housing else housed by said left-handspeaker housing, said energy storage device interacts with saidcombination power and audio input port; a charging cable configured forconnection to said combination power and audio input port when saidenergy storage device is charging; a microphone configured forconnection to said combination power and audio input port when saidcharging cable is disconnected from said combination power and audioinput port; and an audio processor and a transceiver device, said audioprocessor and said transceiver device configured to cooperate with saidcorresponding said processor and transceiver device of said computingdevice.
 23. A mobile video gaming system comprising: a computing device,said computing device presents a fixed length greater than its width,said computing device provides a first combination data/power/audioconnector; a first video game control module provides a secondcombination data/power/audio connector, said second combinationdata/power/audio connector in electronic communication with said firstcombination data/power/audio connector, thereby facilitating passage ofdata and power and audio signals between said first video game controlmodule and said computing device; a second video game control module inelectronic communication with said first video game control module; anda non-elastic, fixed length, flexible strap (“strap”) disposed betweenand secured directly to each said first video game control module andsaid second video game control module.
 24. The mobile video gamingsystem of claim 23, in which upon securement of said strap to each saidfirst video game control module and said second video game controlmodule, neither said strap, nor said first video game control module,nor said second video game module facilitate any adjustment toaccommodate a length of a computing device different than said fixedlength of said computing device.
 25. The mobile video gaming system ofclaim 24, in which said first video game control module further providesa power input port and an audio signal port, said power input portfacilitates transfer of power from an external charger to a battery ofsaid computing device, and said audio signal port facilitates transferof audio signals between an audio processor of said computing device andan external audio device, said second video game control module providesa hinged hatch and a latch, said hinged hatch interacts with said latchto confine and restrain said computing device within said first videogame control module and said second video game module.